Hilbish Ford Teachers of the Month for October 2021

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students. We are proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Audrey Lewis

The Kannapolis City Schools Board of Education was pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Audrey Lewis from Shady Brook Elementary.

Audrey Lewis is an amazing 4th grade teacher at Shady Brook Elementary.  One parent who nominated Miss Lewis shared that her daughter speaks often about how much she loves Miss Lewis and how Miss Lewis does fun things in the classroom.  Another parent expressed that Miss Lewis has provided a safe space for a fresh start for her child who had a tough 3rd grade year.  This parent noted that Miss Lewis accepts her child’s uniqueness and works with it to help him move forward and be successful.

Shady Brook Principal Ingrid Doehle says, “Audrey Lewis is a shining star at Shady Brook and was nominated by her peers as Beginning Teacher of the Year for the 2020-2021 school year.  She is in the beginning years of her career and she has made a tremendous impact on many student’s lives.”  Ms. Doehle went on the share, “Miss Lewis’ room is vibrant, full of energy, and a natural space for learning.  Her students relate to her young spirit and respect her presence, and she goes above and beyond to enrich her students’ lives.”

Audrey Lewis makes all of us in Kannapolis City Schools very proud. We’re delighted that she is part of our KCS family, and we are pleased that Hilbish Ford is honoring her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Congratulations! 

>> Nominate the next KCS teacher for this award.

Cabarrus County Schools - Gayle McGee

We want to give a huge shout out to our Hilbish Teacher of the Month for Cabarrus County Schools, Mrs. Gayle McGee! 

For those of you who don't know Mrs. McGee, she is an outstanding Economics and Personal Finance teacher at Cabarrus-Kannapolis Early College High School. One of the students who nominated her for the award stated, "if everyone was as diligent, kind-hearted, loving and fun to be around as Mrs. McGee, the world would be a better place." 

Congratulations Mrs. McGee and THANK YOU for everything you do to support your students!

>> Nominate the next CCS teacher for this award.

Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award Recipients for May 2021

 

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Alexandra Medley

Written by Kannapolis City Schools  

Alexandra Medley is a phenomenal fourth grade teacher at Jackson Park Elementary School, the kind of teacher children remember for a lifetime. Just listen to the comments we received in her nominations. “Mrs. Medley deserves so much recognition for her work this year! She is one of a kind and JPES is made better just by her being there. Mrs. Medley constantly goes above and beyond all expectations to make learning as fluid and normal as possible. She has shown grace, and patience as well as strength and care. Her love for her kids and for teaching is evident in the way she teaches, the way she engages them, and the way she interacts with them. This was my child's first year at JPES and she has made him feel completely at home and a part of the family at JPES. She has made his transition seamless and I am so grateful for that. Mrs. Medley also is great at communicating and whether it's about an assignment or a concern, she is always on top of it. She also takes the time to communicate good news, which I feel like sets her apart. She takes time to praise exceptional behavior and good deeds, which we all need to hear, especially in times like these. This unprecedented year, has been made much easier by her hard work and dedication. We are beyond thankful for Mrs. Medley. Her heart for teaching and her students is truly one of kind and I can't think of anyone more deserving of recognition than her.”

Jackson Park principal, Will Gibson couldn’t agree more. He shared, “Very honestly, Alexandra Medley makes all of us better. The students and teachers of Jackson Park. Not only is she a wonderful teacher to all the students here in our school, but she also models the professionalism, drive and passion that brings magic to the classrooms of Kannapolis City Schools.”

We couldn’t say it any better than that. We’re delighted that Alexandra is a part of our KCS family.  We’re also grateful that Hilbish Ford is honoring her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

 

The Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award Recipients for April 2021

 

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Doretha Grier

Written by Kannapolis City Schools

Doretha Grier is an encouraging and passionate science teacher at Kannapolis Middle School.  She makes her class interesting and exciting for her students so they enjoy learning. One of Mrs. Grier’s current students recently said “she is a great teacher and she has made virtual learning fun.  She always helps her students and provides quick feedback when we have questions.” The other students who nominated Mrs. Grier echoed these thoughts and described her as helpful, kind, thoughtful, outstanding and amazing.  They were so appreciative of the efforts she has gone to assisting students in navigating virtual learning and the encouragement she has given them to be thorough in completing their notes and assignments.

KMS Principal Nick Carlascio shared that, “Mrs. Grier has been instrumental in rolling out virtual learning to the KMS families.  She constantly reflects on her instructional craft to ensure she is always doing what is best for our kids.”  He went on to say, “One thing that Mrs. Grier does not get enough credit for is her care and dedication to the community.  She is a true advocate for Kannapolis.  Thanks to her thinking and reflection, we have communicated through several different lenses to ensure all of our virtual families get the needed information and support.  Mrs. Grier sets the standard of what a good teacher is and does.”

We are extremely proud that Doretha is part of our Kannapolis City Schools’ family, and we are and delighted to present her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award.  Congratulations! 

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

The Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award Recipients for March 2021

 

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Jason Stegall

Written by Kannapolis City Schools

The Board was also pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Jason Stegall from A.L. Brown High School.

Jason Stegall is an amazing and dedicated CTE teacher at A.L. Brown High School, serving as an Engineering Teacher and also as the Robotics Advisor for the Beta Club.  The parent who nominated Mr. Stegall talked about the important role he has played in her child’s education at A. L. Brown.  She said, “I am sure he has had a huge impact on the lives of many who have been in his classes.  As the Engineering teacher, his classes are hands-on and interactive, allowing time for activities, experimentation and constructive conversations.”  This parent went on to share that, “during virtual learning days, Mr. Stegall works hard to work with his students to get to know them and help them stay on track.”

A. L. Brown Principal Angelo DelliSanti noted, “One of the hallmarks of a great teacher is their ability to get their student to think freely and creatively.  I’ve seen that repeatedly over the two years that I’ve had the opportunity to be Mr. Stegall’s Principal.  His engineering classes are absolutely preparing his students for the complex world they will find themselves in post-graduation.”

CTE Director Daryle Adams shared, “I can think of no one better suited for this honor than Mr. Stegall.  He is committed to delivering the best instruction to our kids daily, making difficult concepts understandable and relevant.  He is committed to growing in his field, and committed to supporting other staff members across the district.  Jason has been an integral part of the CTE department and is one of the key reasons why we have one of the best Engineering programs in the state.”

We feel privileged to have Jason Stegall on the KCS teaching staff and as a part of the Wonder Family.  We’re delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring his excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher of the Month Award for March. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

The Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award Recipients for February 2021

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Madison Hipp

The Kannapolis City Schools Board of Directors was pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Madison Hipp from Fred L. Wilson Elementary.

Madison Hipp is an extraordinary 2nd Grade Dual Language English Teacher at Fred L. Wilson Elementary.   And, according to the family that nominated Ms. Hipp, she is absolutely the best teacher!  They shared that “she is very well organized and so passionate about being the best she can be for her students.”  They went on to say, “For remote learning, she goes above and beyond and our son feels like he is still in the room learning with her.”

Her Fred L. Wilson family also feel Ms. Hipp is extremely deserving of this recognition.  They spoke to the wonderful way she has of taking care of people while also taking care of business.  They noted how her students feel loved, supported, and pushed!  And, not only do students seek her out, but her colleagues do, as well.  They see her as an excellent role model, epitomizing professional teaching standards, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.  As a dual language teacher, they find she has an uncanny ability to design thorough learning experiences for all of her dual language learners.  One Fred L. Wilson staff member shared that Ms. Hipp is a phenomenal educator!

Wow, we can’t say it any better than that!  We are extremely proud that Madison is part of our Kannapolis City Schools’ family, and we are delighted on behalf of Hilbish Ford General Manager, Tim Vaughn, to present her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

Announcing the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award Recipients for January 2021

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools -Suzanne Lentz

Suzanne Lentz is a wonderful example of the amazing teachers we have in Kannapolis City Schools.  She has successfully taught fourth grade students at Forest Park Elementary for many years.  Her principal Martha Motley shared, “Mrs. Lentz is a proactive teacher who constantly seeks out ways to improve her practice.”  This year she stepped into the unknown when she agreed to be a fully remote teacher.  Mrs. Motley said, “In this setting, Mrs. Lentz continues to hold students to high expectations while providing a classroom environment that fosters high growth.  Mrs. Lentz’s students love learning with her because her class is highly engaging and provides a space that is caring and respectful.”

The parents who nominated Mrs. Lentz for Teacher of the Month shared that she “has been a rock solid foundation for our child this year as her remote learning teacher.”  They described her as a wonderful educator and an expert in her field.  They have found her to be compassionate, flexible, and approachable.  The parents expressed their appreciation the way she works to ensure all students are meeting expectations and have an opportunity for success.  They also described the warmth and love she is able to share through the computer screen and how much their child enjoys Mrs. Lentz’s class.

Suzanne Lentz makes all of us in Kannapolis City Schools very proud. We’re delighted that she is part of our KCS family, and we are pleased, on behalf of Tim Vaughn of Hilbish Ford, to honor her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Awards | December 2020

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. Teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will go above and beyond to support the overall success of their students. 

We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Coming Soon!

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards - November 2020

Each month, Hilbish Ford recognizes an outstanding teacher at both Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools, who are all nominated by their students and parents. These teachers are often nominated for a list of reasons, but all of them have one thing in common: they will do anything to support the overall success of their students. We can't thank our teachers enough for all they do to support their students, but we're proud to present this award each month as our way to show you how much we appreciate everything you do. Thank you teachers!

Now, on to this month's Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards...

Kannapolis City Schools - Kayla Harris

"The Kannapolis City Schools Board of Directors was pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Kayla Harris from Jackson Park Elementary.

Kayla Harris is a dedicated and passionate first-grade teacher at Jackson Park Elementary. The families who nominated her spoke to the way she goes above and beyond to spend time with each student so that they get the most out of her instruction. Kayla understands that all children have different ways of learning and she helps all of them reach their full potential.

Her principal, Mr. Gibson shared, "Kayla is so deserving of this recognition. Serving as a first-grade teacher at Jackson Park, as well as on our school-wide MTSS team, she has a unique position to see, and serve, the entire school program. She is so good at analyzing student data, developing academic interventions and extensions, and of course, delivering engaging instruction in the classroom.” He continued by saying, “the work Kayla Harris does both in her classroom and at the school level makes all of us better. The relationship she develops with all of her students and colleagues not only builds all of us instructionally, but also enhances our school culture as a loving, student-centered, and wonderful place.”

We’re extremely proud that Kayla Harris has remained part of our KCS family, from her time as a student to becoming an outstanding teacher, and we’re delighted, on behalf of General Manager, Tim Vaughn, to present her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award.  Congratulations, Kayla!"

Click here to nominate your teacher at KCS

 

Cabarrus County Schools - Beth Giddings

"Congratulations to Beth Giddings for being our Hilbish Teacher of the Month recipient for November!

Mrs. Giddings is an outstanding kindergarten teacher at Royal Oaks School of the Arts. One of her parents shared, "Her organization and experience combined with her positive personality make her a wonderful teacher. She has taken virtual learning with the same passion as in-person learning, and strives to engage the students each and every day."

Thank you to Hilbish Ford for recognizing our outstanding teachers at CCS!"

Click here to nominate your teacher at CCS.

Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Awards - October 2020

KCS Recognizes Ms. Rachel Ridenhour, G.W. Carver Elementary

View original announcement from Kannapolis City Schools here.

"The Kannapolis City Schools Board of Education is pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Rachel Ridenhour from G.W. Carver Elementary.

Rachel Ridenhour is an amazing second grade teacher at G. W. Carver Elementary.  She was nominated for this award by three different families.  They used words like wonderful, amazing, dedicated, passionate, enthusiastic, and creative.  They each spoke to the way Ms. Ridenhour cares for all of her students and strives to make learning fun.  One parent said, “She goes above and beyond to build relationships with her students and makes sure every student feels accepted in her classroom family.  She pushes students to think for themselves and teaches them that they can accomplish hard tasks.”

Her principal, Mr. Irving shared, "Rachel is that teacher who brings all that she can to benefit her students and her school each and every day!  After a strong first year at GWC as a first grade, she is shining as a full virtual second grade teacher this year.”  He continued by saying, “Rachel holds high expectations for her students while building relationships.  Every day her students know that she wants the very best for them all.”

We’re proud that Rachel Ridenhour is part of our KCS family.  We’re also delighted, on behalf of General Manager, Tim Vaughn, to present her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award.  Congratulations!"

Click here to nominate the next Hilbish Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools. 

Hilbish Teacher of the Month Awards for September 2020

Congratulations to the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award recipients for Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Schools!

Cabarrus County Schools - Mrs. Suzanne Shearon

Cabarrus County Schools (CCS) presented the Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award to Mrs. Suzanne Shearon, who is a 3rd grade teacher at Charles E. Boger Elementary School. In fact, she has been teaching at Charles E. Boger Elementary since the school opened in 2007! Thank you so much for your hard work and commitment to your students, Mrs. Shearon!

CCS students and parents and nominate an outstanding teacher for this award by clicking here. 

 

Kannapolis City Schools - Mrs. Lynn Dwyer

From Kannapolis City Schools (KCS): Lynn Dwyer is very special to students at A.L. Brown High School where she serves as the Health Science teacher. Four different students nominated her for this award. They talked about her outstanding teaching but they also talked about what a wonderful, caring person she is. One student shared that, in the three years she has had Mrs. Dwyer as a teacher, she learned more than just the subject matter but also learned some life lessons. Another said of Mrs. Dwyer’s dedication to her students, “She always finds a way to make herself available to meet their needs.” That student also said Mrs. Dwyer isn’t only there for her students, but for her coworkers, as well. All of the students spoke to Mrs. Dwyer’s interest and investment in her students’ success. One seemed to sum it up for all of them when saying, “She isn’t just a teacher, she’s a friend!”

Her principal, Mr. DelliSanti shared, "Mrs. Dwyer is an incredibly dedicated teacher who has a love for her students that is absolutely inextinguishable, as is their love for her.  She is one of the best!"

KCS parents and students can nominate the next Teacher of the Month for their school by visiting this link.

Hilbish Teacher of the Month: Lisa Strahan - KCS, Feb. 2020

Congratulations to the Hilbish Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools, Ms. Lisa Strahan! 

"Lisa Strahan is an exceptional children’s teacher at Woodrow Wilson Elementary. She is an extraordinary teacher who brings love, kindness, and skill to the classroom and makes a positive difference for her students and her colleagues. The parent who nominated Ms. Strahan said that students are excited to come to her classroom because of the fun and interesting way that she meets each one of her student’s needs. The parent also praised Ms. Strahan’s loving personality and her vast knowledge and experience. The nomination said that Ms. Strahan is quick to help other staff members with advice and strategies they can use with struggling students in their classrooms, and that helps everyone in the school.

Lisa Strahan is the kind of teacher that every parent dreams of having for his or her child, and we’re proud that she is part of our KCS family. We’re also delighted that Hilbish Ford honored her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for February. Congratulations!"

Read the original article by Kannapolis City Schools.

Click here to nominate an outstanding KCS teacher for this award.

Stephanie Jordan Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award for January 2020

Congratulations to the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools, Ms. Stephanie Jordan!

“Stephanie Jordan epitomizes what it truly means to teach.”

That is not only a powerful statement but also the first line of the nomination we received to recognize Stephanie as the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month.

Ms. Jordan is an extraordinary first grade teacher at G.W. Carver Elementary School. Her nomination went on to describe her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. It also praised her incredible caring and compassion. The parent who nominated her said that Ms. Jordan creates engaging lessons and an active learning environment for her students. It also said, “She meets the needs of each student with a warm smile, huge heart, and with love, compassion, and a nurturing approach toward student achievement.”

That is an incredible testimonial for a phenomenal teacher, and we’re proud that Stephanie Jordan is part of our KCS family. We’re also delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for January. Congratulations!

Click here to read the original article by Kannapolis City Schools.

Nominate an outstanding KCS teacher by clicking here!

Tammy Currie Wins Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award - December 2019

Congratulations to Tammy Currie for earning the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award for December 2019

"Tammy Currie is an amazing third grade teacher at Jackson Park Elementary. She not only is a remarkable educator for her students but also a shining example of how to cultivate parent involvement. The parent who nominated Ms. Currie praised her ability to keep all parents informed about what is happening in her classroom as well as at Jackson Park. The parent said that Ms. Currie is always available to answer questions and lets her know on a regular basis how her child is doing. She also said that Ms. Currie is extraordinary in dealing with students. The parent said that when her daughter had an incident with another student in the class, Ms. Currie handled perfectly. She said Ms. Currie responded in a way that did not disrupt either child’s learning. In the words of the parent, “Ms. Currie wants to see her students not only as good students but as good people.” She also said that Ms. Currie has helped to make this a fantastic school year!

We’re proud that Tammy Currie is part of our KCS family and delighted that Tim Vaughn of Hilbish Ford honored her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for December. Congratulations!"

Click here for the original story by Kannapolis City Schools.

Nominate an outstanding KCS teacher for this award here.

Kannapolis City Schools Teacher of the Month - November 2019

“Michelle Connell is an amazing teacher!” That’s the first line of the nomination recommending Ms. Connell for the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Ms. Connell teaches 5th grade at G.W. Carver Elementary School.

The parent who nominated Ms. Connell went on to say that her son has high functioning autism as well as ADHD. She said Ms. Connell had been wonderful with her son as well as all of the children in the classroom. The parent explained that her son’s autism and ADHD can make for some rough days but that Ms. Connell always finds ways to keep him on task and pushing to succeed. In the words of the parent, “Ms. Connell has her own unique way of teaching students and making learning fun. She deserves this award because she is the kind of teacher every parent would want for their child.”

We completely agree, and we’re proud that Michelle Connell is part of our KCS family. We’re also delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for November. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate an outstanding Teacher of the Month from Kannapolis City Schools!

Read the original article by Kannapolis City Schools here.

Vanessa Arellano Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award for Kannapolis City Schools!

Vanessa Arellano is a very special teacher at Fred L. Wilson Elementary. She was the school’s very first foreign language teacher, and she’s changing lives in profound ways. She came to Fred L. Wilson from Lima, Peru and helped to make Kannapolis City Schools’ Spanish Language Immersion program a reality.

The parents who nominated Ms. Arellano said that she has helped to bring a world of diversity to her students. They praised her ability to give students a great foundation for learning not only a new language but also a new culture. They love the thoughtful instruction Ms. Arellano brings to the classroom and the way she combines her curriculum with incredible caring. In their words, “She truly loves her students and families and supports her students in every possible way.”

We’re very proud that Vanessa Arellano has come to Kannapolis to be part of our KCS family, and we’re delighted that Hilbish Ford has honored her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for October. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate an outstanding KCS teacher for the Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award.

View the original article by KCS here.

Tara Copeland Recognized as KCS Teacher of the Month for September 2019

Congratulations to the September Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools, Tara Copeland!

Tara Copeland is an amazing Pre-K teacher at Woodrow Wilson Elementary. She is also one of the rare teachers who has received multiple nominations from parents and students to be the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month.

Ms. Copeland makes a lasting impact not only on her students but also on their parents. One parent that nominated Ms. Copeland has had two children come through her classroom. She said, “Mrs. Copeland is an amazing person and a wonderful teacher. She loves her job and treats each one of her students as if they were her own. She puts her all into making sure her students are successful, and both of my children love her.” Another parent sent in a nomination on behalf of her son who is now five years old but still remembers Mrs. Copeland fondly. The parent wrote in her son’s words: “Mrs. Copeland was super fun when I was in pre-K and helped me learn things to make me smart. She always made me laugh, but she still won’t eat sushi!”

That pretty much sums up the life of an A-1, super-fantastic pre-school teacher, and we’re extremely proud that Tara Copeland is part of our KCS family. We are delighted that Tim Vaughn of Hilbish Ford has honored her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award. Congratulations!

Click here to view the original article by Kannapolis City Schools.

Nominate an outstanding KCS teacher by clicking here.

Celeste Kirkman Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award for KCS

Congratulations to Ms. Celeste Kirkman for earning the Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award for Kannapolis City Schools!

KCS shared: "Celeste Kirkman teaches special needs students at A.L. Brown High School, and she has made a wonderful, positive, and lasting impact on her students. The parent that nominated Ms. Kirkman wrote about his daughter’s remarkable transformation thanks to Ms. Kirkman’s amazing influence. The parent wrote that his daughter’s middle school years were very difficult but that it all changed when she started at A.L. Brown and had Ms. Kirkman. The father said in his nomination, “Catherine has received straight A's since starting high school. She loves getting up and wanting to go to school. She loves Ms. Kirkman, and every night when she does her prayers, she says her name. Catherine has really excelled this school year, and I truly feel it is because of her teacher. I even get progress notes every day in Catherine's backpack. For her first year, Ms. Kirkman has made a big difference with my daughter, and I will always be indebted to her for what she has done for my Catherine.”

That is a wonderful tribute to Ms. Kirkman, and it shows why public education is so special. We are extremely proud that Celeste Kirkman is part of our KCS family, and we’re delighted that Hilbish Ford and General Manager, Tim Vaughn, are honoring her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for June. Congratulations"

Click here for the original article by KCS.

"One of a Kind" Teacher Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award

Congratulations to our Hilbish Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools, Ms. Sonya Allman!

Here's what KCS shared about Ms. Allman:

"Sonya Allman teaches four-year-old students at McKnight Head Start. She is a very special teacher and the first person from McKnight to win the Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award.

The grandparent who nominated Ms. Allman called her “one of a kind” and praised the incredible caring that she showed to her grandchildren when they were students at Head Start. Here is part of what the nomination said. “Ms. Sonya went completely above and beyond for my grandchildren. She was the teacher for both of my granddaughters, and she stays in touch with them both even though they are now in kindergarten and first grade. She went out of her way to spend some time with them over the summer as I had to take custody of them, and she wanted to make the transition easier. Teachers receive so little recognition, but if anyone deserves a moment of gratitude and recognition for the love and care they provide for these children, it is Ms. Sonya.” The grandmother’s nomination went on to say that she has two little girls who are prime examples of what a loving teacher can do to give them a great start in their educational careers.

Sonya Allman epitomizes what it means to be a great teacher, and we’re extremely proud that she is part of our KCS family. We’re delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring her excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for May. Congratulations!"

Click here to nominate an outstanding KCS teacher for this award.

Doug Byrnes of Kannapolis Middle School Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award

Congratulations to the Hilbish Teacher of the Month, Doug Byrnes!

Tim Vaughn, General Manager for Hilbish Ford, presented the award to Mr. Byrnes during the recent Kannapolis City Schools Board of Education Meeting. KCS shared this message:

Doug Byrnes teaches social studies at Kannapolis Middle School. Besides inspiring students inside the classroom, Mr. Byrnes leads the KMS Quiz Bowl Team.

The parent that nominated Mr. Byrnes praised his unique ability to teach students life lessons that go beyond the standard curriculum. The parent observed Mr. Byrnes at the Reed Gold Mine Quiz Bowl competition and said this, “His love for teaching and his passion for history was evident. He encouraged the students and made sure they knew how proud he was of them for trying their best. He also made sure they understood that good sportsmanship was just as important as winning. One thing my son learned from Mr. Byrnes is that you can always be first at something, even if it is “first at the handshake” to congratulate the team or person who won. Mr. Byrnes has made learning social studies fun for my son this year. He has found a new passion for history that he has never had before. Mr. Byrnes is the type of teacher that leaves a lasting impression on his students. He challenges them but also motivates them to leave his classroom as a better student and person than they were before they came.”

Doug Byrnes epitomizes what it means to be a great teacher, and we’re extremely proud that he is part of our KCS family. We’re delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring his excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for April. Congratulations!

Click here to nominate the next Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools.

A.L. Brown HS Teacher Earns Hilbish Teacher of the Month Award for March 2019

We would like to congratulate Mr. James Busse for earning the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award for Kannapolis City Schools! We are so proud of your achievements and we're thankful to have teachers like you in our community! 

Kannapolis City Schools shared this message: 

"James Busse is an amazing, versatile, and dedicated teacher at A.L. Brown High School. He is the school’s Carpentry teacher, and he helps coach the Wonders’ championship cheerleading squad. Mr. Busse makes a positive impact on students all across A.L. Brown.

The parent who nominated Mr. Busse praised his patience and excellence in teaching her son with special needs. She said, “My son, who is in the Occupational Course of Study Program with high functioning Autism, had Mr. Busse for Carpentry during the first semester of this school year. My son absolutely loved this class and loved Mr. Busse. While using caution with specific tools, Mr. Busse allowed my son to learn and participate in class just like the rest of the students. The self-confidence my child gained from being in the class has been fantastic. Mr. Busse always provides a huge smile, a warm welcome into his classroom, and positive attitude. He mailed postcards to my child congratulating him on passing his exam, his hardworking attitude, and his willingness to try new things. Mr. Busse is an outstanding teacher. His kindness has been heartwarming, and he is a true asset to A.L. Brown High School.”

James Busse epitomizes what it means to be a great teacher, and we’re extremely proud that he is part of our KCS family. We’re delighted that Hilbish Ford is honoring his excellence with the Hilbish Ford Outstanding Teacher Award for March. Congratulations!"

Click here to nominate the next Teacher of the Month for Kannapolis City Schools!